For Whānau

Child cancer and education information for whānau

A piece of paper with drawings on it and a child's hands holding a pen. A teacher's hand is pointing to the drawing
Photo of a student with their teacher

Talking To Your Child's School At Diagnosis

You may feel overwhelmed after receiving your child's diagnosis. It might help to have one key contact person at your child's school who you talk to. 

Child doing schoolwork

Letter To Inform School About Your Child's Cancer Diagnosis

A letter that you can use to let your child's school know about their cancer diagnosis.

Child in hospital bed doing schoolwork

Education During Your Child's Cancer Treatment

Once you have a clear idea of what your child's cancer treatment will involve, it is a good idea to chat with your child's school about what schoolwork may be appropriate.

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Common Questions Kids Ask About Cancer

Children often have many questions about cancer. Here are some answers to commonly asked questions.

Child holding schoolwork

Preparing Your Child To Return To School Or Early Learning

It is understandable to feel anxious about your child returning to school or early learning after cancer treatment. However, most parents find that the return to their education setting goes a lot more smoothly than expected.

two siblings sitting on the grass

The Effect Of Your Child's Cancer On Their Brothers & Sisters

Cancer can be difficult for your child's brothers and sisters. It's common for siblings to feel guilt, rejection, fear, depression, or anxiety. Find out about how they might be affected and how you can help them.

young child doing homework

Special Concerns For Your Young Child With Cancer

In hospital, your child may become used to interacting with more adults than children and they may need more support from their early childhood teachers.

Two teenagers doing schoolwork from hospital

Supporting Your Teenager With Cancer

Having cancer can interrupt the normal developmental process your teenager goes through as they become independent of you. There are some things you can do to help them transition back to school. 

Child doing schoolwork

How Late Effects From Cancer Treatment Can Affect Your Child's Learning & Development

Some children who have cancer treatment will have a harder time learning in school than their classmates. Find out about late effects from cancer treatment which may impact your child's learning.

Monkey toy in a chair

Resources About Cancer

Some useful resources to help with a child's re-entry into the classroom after cancer treatment. 

Image of two KidsHealth QR code posters highlighting content on cancer and education

KidsHealth QR Code Posters - Cancer & Education

To give others easy access to KidsHealth's content on cancer and education information, you can share 2 QR code posters (for whānau and educators). Anyone can scan the QR code with their phone and go straight to KidsHealth's content on cancer and education.